EEOC Files Discrimination Suit Against Bass Pro Shops

The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) filed a lawsuit on Wednesday September 21, 2011, against Missouri based outdoor supplies retailer Bass Pro Shops in the United States District Court for the Southern District of Texas, Houston Division. The lawsuit alleges that the retailer has engaged in a pattern of illegal ethnic background and racial discrimination against black and Hispanic workers and job applicants, retaliated against employees who raised questions, and destroyed records. As the Chair of the EEOC, Jacqueline A. Berrien, stated, “Excluding qualified individuals from employment because of their race or ethnicity or in retaliation for exercising protected rights are fundamental violations of the laws we enforce.” Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibits discrimination based on race and national origin, and prohibits employers from retaliating against employees who complain about employment discrimination. Individuals who believe they may be victims of employment discrimination because of their ethnic background or race should contact Ogborn Mihm LLP regarding their potential claims.